The vice-president, Senator Kashim Shettima, Tuesday in Abuja inaugurated the Board of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), urging them to work “closely and cooperatively as a team to advance the cause of Christian Pilgrimage in Nigeria.”
This was contained in a press statement issued Wednesday by the commission’s head of media and public relations, Celestine Toruka.
The statement indicated that the vice-president promised to support the Commission in all ramifications in the realiation of its statutory mandate of achieving smooth airlift of Nigerian Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land.
“The place of faith is very critical in fostering the unity of Nigeria. Nigeria is what it is because we are a nation of God.
“Inter- faith harmony is the ultimate priority of the President Bola Ahmed TInubu-led administration and he’ll do everything humanly possible to achieve it, as Nigeria would continue to remain a home for all,” he said, according to the statement.
“Through inter- faith harmony, dialogue, peace and love that we shall emerge more united than ever before. We’ll make sure that each person in Nigeria practises his or her faith with ease. This occasion comes with a promise that no citizen of Nigeria will be prioritised over others,” the statement read further.
He advised them to see their appointments as an opportunity to serve humanity and that it should be a win-win situation.
“We are confident that you will not let our people down. What binds us together as a people supercedes what divides us; thus wherever Nigeria goes, that is where Africa goes.
“Once there is equity, fair play and justice in the board, the entire Christendom would be better for it.”
Earlier, the new chairman of the board, Msg. Cletus Gotan, thanked the vice-president for his support and for the overt interest he had shown in the affairs of the Commission.
“We appreciate the interest of your government in sponsoring Christians in sacred journeys to the Holy Land. All the assistance you’ve given to the NCPC won’t go unrewarded,” he said.
Also speaking, the NCPC executive secretary, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, appreciated the vice-president for his efforts and support since the inception of the new board.
“Your support for our board is fantastic and fantabulous. With your support and that of Mr. President, we will rejoice.
“We are not going to disappoint God, we are not going to disappoint you,” Adegbite said.
